Almohada
José José
The Heartache in José José's 'Almohada'
José José's 'Almohada,' which translates to 'Pillow' in English, is a poignant ballad that delves into the depths of love and loss. The song is a classic example of the emotional intensity that characterizes much of José José's music, often referred to as 'El Príncipe de la Canción' (The Prince of Song). His ability to convey deep feelings of heartache and longing through his powerful voice has made him an iconic figure in Latin American music.
The lyrics of 'Almohada' speak of an irreplaceable love, one that is unique and impossible to find again. The singer describes a deep connection with his beloved, who now only exists in his memories and as a silent presence in his bed at night. The repeated act of coming home 'borracho de angustia' (drunk with anguish) and seeking solace in the physical presence of his loved one, only to find a pillow, underscores the profound sense of emptiness and yearning for a love that is no longer there. The pillow becomes a metaphor for the lover, absorbing tears and providing cold comfort in the absence of the person it represents.
The song also touches on the theme of suffering in silence, a common experience for many who have loved and lost. The desire to shout out for the loved one to return is tempered by the realization that, like words, suffering is often carried away by the wind, unheard and unheeded. José José's 'Almohada' is a moving testament to the enduring pain of lost love, and the solace we seek, even in inanimate objects, to fill the void left behind.